Sweet Fury is a provocative and twisty exploration of fame, power, and identity in the modern world, set against the glamorous yet cutthroat backdrop of the film industry. The novel follows Lila Crayne, America’s darling actress, as she embarks on a feminist reimagining of F. Scott Fitzgerald's Tender Is the Night, only to find herself ensnared in a web of betrayal, secrets, and revenge. As Lila prepares for her role, her personal life begins to crumble, particularly as her therapy sessions with Jonah Gabriel—a suave, enigmatic therapist—bring her darkest traumas to light.
Bischoff weaves a deeply introspective narrative, expertly deconstructing the constructed facades that both the film industry and society at large demand of women. Lila’s story is a sharp critique of America’s enduring misogyny, questioning not only how women are perceived and exploited but also the roles they are forced to play in their own lives. The novel's exploration of the blurred lines between victim and perpetrator, particularly in the context of power dynamics, is both timely and thought-provoking.
The character-driven plot takes readers on a psychological rollercoaster, with plenty of twists and turns. Each character—from the charming therapist to the seemingly perfect fiancé—harbours secrets that slowly unravel, keeping the tension high and the stakes even higher. Bischoff's writing is intelligent and haunting, offering rich, multilayered prose that invites deep reflection on societal expectations, justice, and the manipulation of narrative.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my review.

I was interested to read this but I found it a bit heavy handed. It said Fitzgerald fans would enjoy the references, but then went on to point out all the references as you went through. It lacked subtlety. I didn't mind the overall plot but it could have been better explained in places

I was hooked from the start and ended up finishing this in one sitting. Like other readers have mentioned the ending is the weak link in this story, it wraps things up but it feels rushed which doesn’t do the rest of the story justice. An epic debut novel from Sash Bischoff nonetheless, I can’t wait to read more from her in the future!

Thank you so much Random House UK, Transworld Digital, Bantam + NetGalley for the chance to read Sweet Fury before it’s published on 3rd April 2025!

This was a super quick and fast paced read. It has some interesting themes with lots of twists and turns. I didn't particularly enjoy the ending though and I found it felt a little rushed. Still, a pretty solid thriller.

Such a good book! I loved the different aspects of this book going from different character perspectives, therapy notes, letters, the filming scenes. It makes for a really interesting read. The comparison to the silent patient kinda spoils it for me as it means you’re suspicious of Jonah straight off the bat. I’m not sure I liked Lila, or any of the characters tbf? All the twists and turns keep the book dramatic and you never know which character you can trust!! A really good debut with some hard topics covered so check the trigger warnings.

OH what a read.

Lila is an actress but does she know when when her acting should stop and her reality begins.

She plays a victim well and she is rather manipulative. The people around her seem to let her get away with things she shouldn't and her therapist, while concerned, I think, doesn't see through her.

This is a good read, and while it isn't brilliant storytelling or writing it is a twisty and intriguing read.

Loved this novel along the lines of Evelyn Hugo. It had all the elements of a great book! Full of twist and turns. Glamour and suspense this book makes the perfect addition to your reading list or book club!